DEEP Reminds People of Lower Capacity Limits at State Parks

DEEP encouraging visitors but establishing guidelines for safe social distancing.

By Mike Massaro•Published May 3, 2020•Updated on May 3, 2020 at 10:17 am

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As the weather gets warmer, it is a delicate balance between
enjoying the outdoors and being safe. DEEP is trying to help by keeping parks
at a lower capacity. Saturday was a big test of that. It was a beautiful day
and people were taking advantage.

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“I mean everyone is just trying to get out of the house,”
said Joe Massa of West Haven. “I think they’re fed up with being in.”

Quarantine fatigue, combined with warmer days, means an
increase at the state parks. The Department of Energy and Environmental
Protection (DEEP) says they are seeing an increase of 70 to 80 percent at some
parks over last year.

“This is a great time to enjoy and discover new parks you haven’t been to,” said DEEP Commissioner, Katie Dykes, reminding people there are over 100 state parks.

Once inside the parks, DEEP is requesting people arrive in groups of five or fewer people, maintain six feet distance and wear a mask when that is not possible. While the parks themselves have massive acreage, the trails can be narrow.

“If you’re passing someone on the trail, you want to be
respectful, step to the side and give people plenty of space to get by,”
explained Dykes.

With a forecast for more nice weather Sunday, large
crowds are expected again. DEEP is encouraging park visits, with the hope
people take a safe approach like some who visited Sleeping Giant Park today.

“I’m excited to see everyone coming together,” added
Medoff. “Social distance apart but everyone is exercising and putting their
best foot forward.”

Anticipating more closures Sunday, DEEP wants people to know they can get real-time info on their Twitter site which is @CTStateParks.